Top storylines, players to watch, rankings

In the first year of the girls water polo playoffs, Patrick Henry won the 1997 section title behind future Olympian Ericka Lorenz. The Patriots, led by seniors Sierra Stillwater and Emily Brown, are re-emerging among the elite as they come off a Division I semifinal berth last season.

Double trouble

Coronado twins Cassidy and Mackenzie Wiley each earned all-league honors as freshmen in the powerful Western League last season. They spearhead a Division III title bid for the tradition-rich Islanders, who own six section crowns, the most recent in 2010.

Good Knights

Along with senior standout Jessica Webster, sophomore Hannah Carrillo keys the Bishop’s attack in Division III. Senior Sheila Gerrity and junior Natalie Chun are also top performers for the Knights, who have made 15 straight finals appearances.

Bulldogs barking

Is this the time for Ramona to reach its first final? The Bulldogs advanced to the Division II semifinals each of the last two seasons. Junior Cassie Bernas, a field player and backup goalie last season, leads the way along with senior Rachel Hogervorst.

Repeat effort

Five senior starters graduated from last season’s Carlsbad team that claimed the school’s first Division I title in seven years. Still, the Lancers look to contend for a repeat championship, paced by returning senior Makena Magro and senior transfer Jaycee McNally from Vista.